Declaring Your Program Specialization: Timing and Guidance

Modified on Tue, 6 May at 1:58 PM

Choosing a specialization is an important step in tailoring some Nexford University programs to your specific career goals. If your program of study has specialization options, we encourage an informed decision-making process, supported by your Success Advisor.

Initial Discussion: The Learning Path Verification Session

Approximately one month after you begin your studies with Nexford, your personal Success Advisor will reach out to schedule a Learning Path Verification Session. This session is an ideal initial opportunity to discuss your specialization.

Why this timing? This one-month mark generally gives you enough time to:
- Understand the structure and demands of your academic program.
- Adapt to your online learning style.
- Begin developing clearer personal and academic goals.
What happens in the session? Your Success Advisor will:
- Discuss the specialization options available within your program.
- Help you evaluate these options against your evolving goals and motivations.
- Guide you towards making an informed decision that aligns with your aspirations.

Flexibility in Making Your Choice

While the Learning Path Verification Session is a structured checkpoint, we understand that you might not be ready to declare your specialization at exactly that moment. If you need more time to consider your options after this initial discussion, that's perfectly fine. You can always schedule another session with your Success Advisor to discuss your specialization further when you feel more prepared or if your goals evolve.

How to Formally Declare Your Specialization

Once you have decided on a specialization, in consultation with your Success Advisor:

Inform your Success Advisor of your choice.
They will then guide you on the official steps to formally declare your specialization, which may involve making a selection in the myNXU portal or another designated process.

Considering a Longer Break Before Deciding?

If you feel you need a more significant break from your studies before making decisions like choosing a specialization, you can discuss requesting a Leave of Absence with your Success Advisor. This would allow you dedicated time off before resuming your studies and finalizing your academic path.

Key Takeaway

The "best time" to declare your specialization is when you feel well-informed and confident in your choice, often following the discussions in your Learning Path Verification Session. Your Success Advisor is your key resource throughout this decision-making and declaration process.

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